Originally belonging to the aristocratic Corsini family, this 30-acre botanical garden today is run by the University of Rome. In her exile, Queen Christina of Sweden once strolled past its magnificent grottoes and gushing fountains. Regrettably, many of the ancient trees were sold by the city fathers for firewood in 1878, much to the objections of the Italian queen, Margherita. But there is much that remains to delight us, including 7,000 plant species from all over the world. The exotic plants are grouped together into botanical families. Stone steps and tiered fountains invite you to linger and relax among the orchids, bamboo grove, and Japanese tea garden. There are two greenhouses -- one for orchids, another for cacti. As a special, thoughtful touch, gardeners have planted a scented garden for the blind.